National Air Force Museum of Canada

trenton air base tour

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Brooke In The Air

National Air Force Museum of Canada (Trenton, Ontario): Hours, Address, Free, Top-Rated Attraction Reviews - Tripadvisor

  • Sun - Sat 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
  • (8.38 km) Montrose Inn Boutique B&B and Tea Room
  • (12.64 km) TownePlace Suites by Marriott Belleville
  • (1.15 km) Trenton Park Motel
  • (2.22 km) Comfort Inn Trenton Hotel
  • (14.74 km) Best Western Belleville
  • (0.10 km) Tim Hortons
  • (2.46 km) Tomasso's Italian Grille
  • (1.61 km) Gogi Korean Grill
  • (2.48 km) Jim's Pizzeria
  • (1.17 km) Dairy Queen Grill & Chill

National Air Force Museum of Canada

www.airforcemuseum.ca

The Museum is a self-guided attraction. However, volunteer tour guides are always available during visitor hours and can provide you with as much or as little direction and information as you need. The NAFMC volunteers are a wellspring of knowledge, both in the Museum’s history and its collection. Mainly comprised of past or current serving military members, they are happy to share their stories with visitors of all ages.

Last admission is at 4:30pm

Group Rates

  • Groups of 15 people or more
  • Cadet Squadrons, Summer Camps, Youth Programs, Service Clubs etc.
  • Groups with special needs & requirements
  • School groups of all ages. (If you wish to book a program, there will be a per-student fee please see available programs for more information.)
  • Charter Bus groups/tours

Accessibility

Logo_caf_header

  • Henry B. Tippie NAEC
  • General Staff
  • Hall of Fame
  • Headquarters Staff
  • Non-Profit Information
  • Photo Gallery
  • 2024 Victory Ball
  • New Unit Initiative
  • 2024 Normandy Tour
  • 2024 CAF Conference
  • Membership Options
  • Renew Membership
  • Member Benefits
  • Join Victory Circle
  • How To Get Involved
  • Find A Location
  • Contact Member Services
  • Ways To Give
  • Victory Plaza Brick Campaign
  • Gift Acceptance Policy
  • Media Inquiries
  • Update My Info
  • Aircraft Rides
  • CAF Documents

Airpower History Tour in Trenton, New Jersey

trenton air base tour

Dates & Times: Thursday, June 10, 2021 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. B-29 & B-24 cockpit tours available all day. T-6 & PT-13 available for rides all day.

Friday, June 11, 2021 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. B-29 & B-24 cockpit tours available all day. T-6 & PT-13 available for rides all day. P-51 arrives at noon, rides available after 1:00 p.m.

Saturday, June 12, 2021 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. B-29 flies at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. B-24 flies at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. B-29 & B-24 cockpit tours available after noon. P-51, PT-13, & T-6 available for rides all day.

Sunday, June 13, 2021 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. B-29 flies at 9:00 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. B-24 flies at 9:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. B-29 & B-24 cockpit tours available after noon. P-51, PT-13, & T-6 available for rides all day.

Ramp Access Cost: $20: Adults $10: Children (Age 11 thru 17) Free: Children (Age 10 & Under)

All tickets are purchased on-site on the day of the event. Price includes free B-29 & B-24 cockpit tour when the aircraft is available. Rider's admission is complimentary with proof of purchase. Attending aircraft subject to change due to weather or maintenance.

Event Location: Signature Flight Support 10 W. Piper Ave. Trenton, NJ 08628

More Info: https://www.airpowersquadron.org/trenton-nj

Logo_caf_footer

trenton air base tour

  • Auster AOP6 VF-582 - trainer
  • Avro Canada CF-100 774 Canuck - jet fighter
  • Beech 23 Musketeer 213 - trainer
  • Bell CH-118 Iroquois 101 - utility helicopter
  • Bell CH 135 Twin Huey 135102 - utility helicopter
  • Bell CH-136 Kiowa 136204- observation and utility helicopter
  • Boeing Vertol CH-113 Labrador 315 - SAR helicopter
  • Burgess-Dunne (full-scale model) - first aircraft in Canadian military service
  • Canadair Argus 732 - transport and surveillance aircraft
  • Canadair CF-5 116721 Freedom Fighter - jet fighter and trainer
  • Canadair Sabre 23257 - jet fighter
  • Canadair CF-104 Starfighter 104646 - jet strike/recon fighter and trainer
  • Canadair CT-114 Tutor 114015 - trainer
  • Canadair CT-133 Silver Star 435 - trainer, Electronic Warfare, Target Towing
  • Canadair CT-133 Silver Star 593 - (cut away) - trainer, Electronic Warfare, Target Towing
  • de Havilland Chipmunk WB550 - trainer
  • Douglas C-47 Dakota 12963 - transport
  • Grumman S-2 Tracker 1545 - Recon and ASW
  • Handley Page Halifax NA 337 - A Mk VII - bomber
  • Hawker HunterJ-4029 - bomber/jet fighter
  • Hawker Hurricane V7287 (full-scale model) - fighter
  • Lockheed CC-130 Hercules130313 - Transport
  • McDonnell CF-101 Voodoo 101040 - jet fighter
  • McDonnell Douglas CF-18 Hornet 188911 - Fighter
  • Mikoyan-Gurevich MiG-21 776 - fighter
  • SAGEM Sperwer 007 - UAV
  • Supermarine Spitfire ML380 (full-scale model) - fighter

trenton air base tour

  •  Calander of Events      
  • Trenton Day Trips    
  •  Trenton Weather      
  •  Visitor Information      
  •  Getting To Trenton      
  • Trent-Severn Waterway    
  •   CFB Trenton 8 Wing      
  • Printable Map     
  • Trenton Photos     
  • Moving To Trenton    
  • History of Trenton    
  • Other Trentons    
  • Link Exchange    
  • Testimonials    
  • Education & Fun    
  • Site Map    
  • Contact Us    

trenton air base tour

  • Things to Do
  • Restaurants
  • Vacation Rentals
  • Travel Stories
  • Rental Cars
  • Add a Place
  • Travel Forum
  • Travelers' Choice
  • Help Center

Great place to see the old Halifax... - National Air Force Museum of Canada

  • Canada    
  • Ontario    
  • Quinte West    
  • Trenton    
  • Trenton - Things to Do    
  • National Air Force Museum of Canada

Fantastic history of Canada's Royal Canadian Air Force, especially if you're an aviation geek... read more

trenton air base tour

It's a large area with many different kinds of aircrafts. There are few indoors and most outdoors... read more

trenton air base tour

Great place to see the old Halifax Bomber that was restored here.

Great place to take visitors to see all the WWII antiques. The Museum is very close to town and is also on the Military Base - the largest in Canada and we have it right here in Trenton, ON.

The museum is very large with indoor and outdoors displays tracing the aircraft used by the RCAF from WWI to Afghanistan. Volunteers - mostly retired Air Force personnel - are eager to talk about the aircraft and their experiences.

We have been to the museum a few times and learn something new each time. Was most impressed with the exhibit displaying the Canadian's impact on the Great Escape. Unlike the movie that displayed no Canadian participation, I was delighted to learn that members of the RCAF played a major role in the escape and that one of the real tunnel kings was a Canadian.

Excellent museum. Staff are knowledgeable and give a great personal, hands on tour. Indoor displays are well done and paint a story of our military history. Inside and out, it portrays life in the air force then and now.

Canadian Forces Base Trenton Air Base Museum is very stunning & tells the story of Canadian War history...there is several planes rebuilt on display outside the Museum... This is a MUST see Museum in Trenton, Ontario...there is a gift shop, Tim Hortons across the road...Huge venue for parties, ceremonies etc... You will not be disappointed by a visit to this Canadian Air Force Museum...

You don't need to be an airplane "nut" to appreciate this venue. The feature of the museum is a WW2 Halifax aircraft that was shot down late in WW2 by the Germans. It was a Canadian crew who were flying supply relief to the Norwegian underground. Most of the crew perished when it came down on a frozen fresh water lake in Norway. The museum was in an older building until the Halifax was retrieved from the lake and brought back to Trenton for restoration..a monumental task! The restoration is impeccable and the signage clear and as well there some vets around to give you more details if needed. The restoration resulted also in a brand new building with the Halifax right on the main floor. Of course there are other exhibits from the original museum around the centre display, including some WW1 exhibits. Outside, in an adjacent area, several other aircraft that have served the RCAF are on display. The space here does not permit a full essay on the bravery of the Canadian flyers nor the efforts to repatriate and restore the Halifax, but it sure is a an important piece of Canadian history that needs to be visited. My visit was on a Saturday--it was a nice day and a large boy scout troop was visiting and it sure looked like they were enjoying the visit. I will take my grand-kids next time I visit Trenton. BTW--there is no fee to visit the museum, but they do appreciate your donations.

trenton air base tour

David Pride Personal Website

National Air Force Museum of Canada

The National Air Force Museum of Canada was originally founded in 1984 as the RCAF Memorial Library and Museum. In 1994, the museum relocated to 8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Trenton. The museum's most notable accomplishment, and the primary reason for my visit, was the acquisition and restoration of one of the most versatile bombers of World War II, the Handley Page Halifax.

National Air Force Museum of Canada

If you have the good fortune to visit this museum, you will find that its staff is both helpful and knowledgeable. As with most air museums I've visited, it is the museum's volunteer staff that makes the museum's existence possible. Without these volunteers most museums could not afford to stay open. So, when you meet your tour guide, thank him/her for making your visit possible.

National Air Force Museum of Canada

Back to Aviation

View Button

National Air Force Museum of Canada 220 RCAF Road 8 Wing/CFB Trenton Trenton, ON K0K 3W0

Search The Canadian Encyclopedia

Enter your search term

Why sign up?

Signing up enhances your TCE experience with the ability to save items to your personal reading list, and access the interactive map.

  • MLA 8TH EDITION
  • Haycock, Ronald G.. "Canadian Forces Base Trenton". The Canadian Encyclopedia , 04 March 2015, Historica Canada . www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton. Accessed 09 March 2024.
  • The Canadian Encyclopedia , 04 March 2015, Historica Canada . www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton. Accessed 09 March 2024." href="#" class="js-copy-clipboard b b-md b-invert b-modal-copy">Copy
  • APA 6TH EDITION
  • Haycock, R. (2015). Canadian Forces Base Trenton. In The Canadian Encyclopedia . Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton
  • The Canadian Encyclopedia . Retrieved from https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton" href="#" class="js-copy-clipboard b b-md b-invert b-modal-copy">Copy
  • CHICAGO 17TH EDITION
  • Haycock, Ronald G.. "Canadian Forces Base Trenton." The Canadian Encyclopedia . Historica Canada. Article published February 07, 2006; Last Edited March 04, 2015.
  • The Canadian Encyclopedia . Historica Canada. Article published February 07, 2006; Last Edited March 04, 2015." href="#" class="js-copy-clipboard b b-md b-invert b-modal-copy">Copy
  • TURABIAN 8TH EDITION
  • The Canadian Encyclopedia , s.v. "Canadian Forces Base Trenton," by Ronald G. Haycock, Accessed March 09, 2024, https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton
  • The Canadian Encyclopedia , s.v. "Canadian Forces Base Trenton," by Ronald G. Haycock, Accessed March 09, 2024, https://www.thecanadianencyclopedia.ca/en/article/canadian-forces-base-trenton" href="#" class="js-copy-clipboard b b-md b-invert b-modal-copy">Copy

Thank you for your submission

Our team will be reviewing your submission and get back to you with any further questions.

Thanks for contributing to The Canadian Encyclopedia.

Canadian Forces Base Trenton

Article by Ronald G. Haycock

Published Online February 7, 2006

Last Edited March 4, 2015

8 Wing Trenton

Renamed CFB Trenton upon unification (1968), the base at various times has housed units of air operations, training and support, their activities including air-traffic control and communications, air transport and movement, civil and military search and rescue, weather forecasting and air maintenance, and training systems for the Canadian Forces and the UN.

8 Wing is Canada's busiest air base. With its 2,500 military and civilian employees, 3,300 dependents and modern urban facilities, it has an operating budget of $80 million, not including salaries. As such, it is a prime economic influence on the nearby cities of Belleville  and Quinte West  and the surrounding district.

 alt=

  • armed forces

Recommended

trenton air base tour

Canadian Forces Base Valcartier

Canadian forces base gagetown, canadian forces bases, canadian armed forces, canadian forces base borden, women in the canadian armed forces, canadian forces base shilo, history of the armed forces in canada, unification of the canadian armed forces, canadian forces base petawawa.

Air Show Report : Quinte International Air Show 2016

Quinte International Air Show 2016 - CFB Trenton

Ron Cembrowski reports on the 2016 Quinte International Air Show organized by the Royal Canadian Air Force's 8 Wing at CFB Trenton in Ontario. All photos by author.

On June 25 and 26, 2016, 8 Wing / CFB Trenton held the Quinte International Air Show (QIAS). The show commemorated the BCATP and the establishment of the first 400 series squadrons of the RCAF overseas. The first of these squadrons were formed on March 1, 1941, under Article XV of the BCATP.

This photo report covers some of the aircraft arrivals on Friday June 24 as well as both air show days on Saturday and Sunday June 25-26. A number of the aircraft scheduled for static display had already arrived by Thursday. The photographs of Friday aircraft arrivals were taken from off of base property, at the approaches to both Rwy 06 and Rwy 24.

The air show opening ceremony began with the 8 Wing Commanding Officer Colonel Colin Keiver performing a tandem jump with one of the SkyHawks team members. Landing at show centre, Colonel Keiver then made his way to the main announcer's stand to give his welcome address. This was followed by an impressive display of canopy work by the SkyHawks parachute team.

The daily flying displays included units based at Trenton as well as the CF-18 Demonstration Team and the Snowbirds. Civilian aerobatic acts and warbird displays, including a formation fly-by salute to WWII Veterans, were also part of a full schedule.

The QIAS was one of only two shows in Canada to get the F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team, for 2016. The team is based at Langley Air Force Base, Virginia.

  • Canadian Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team (opening act)
  • 424 (Transport & Rescue) Squadron - CC-130H Hercules (para-drop) and CH-146 Griffon flypasts
  • 436 (Transport) Squadron - CC-130J Hercules display
  • 429 (Transport) Squadron - CC-177 Globemaster III display
  • Canadian Harvard Aircraft Association - Formation Flypasts
  • Rick Volker - Harvard Mk IV aerobatic display
  • Kent Pietsch - S-1A Cadet "Jelly Belly" aerobatic display
  • Canadian Warplane Heritage - Lancaster Mk X and B-25J Mitchell in a formation fly-past salute to WWII Veterans with P-51D "Quick Silver"
  • P-51D Mustang "Quick Silver" aerobatic display
  • Gordon Price – Yak-50 "Dam Pub" aerobatic display
  • CF-18 Hornet Demonstration Team – CF-188 painted in special BCATP commemorative colour scheme
  • F-22 Raptor Demonstration Team including a USAF Heritage Flight with P-51D Mustang "Double Trouble"
  • 431 (Air Demonstration) Squadron - the Snowbirds (closing act)

The base provided two full days of tremendous flying and static displays. The show was very well organized, with a large static aircraft display on the apron both east and west of Hangar 10, plus numerous displays within the hangar. The spectator crowd line paralleled a very large portion of main Runway 06 - 24, which provided plenty of viewing space for the public.

At one time Trenton held an air show every two years. However between operational commitments and funding those days ended. The last time CFB Trenton had a full air show was in 2009 for the Canadian Centennial of Powered Flight (1909 - 2009). A much missed aviation event in Southern Ontario, it was a pleasure to see its return. If deemed successful by the 2016 QIAS organizers future shows at the base may be considered.

Canadian Forces Skyhawks

Airbus Defence and Space C295W - Mexican Air Force

C295W 3207

In 2016, Airbus Defence and Space undertook a North American Tour of their C295W tactical airlifter in collaboration with the Mexican Air Force, having done a similar tour in 2015 in Latin America. The tour was designed to demonstrate the aircraft's reliability and versatility in a variety of weather conditions.

The Airbus C295 is a candidate in the RCAF's Fixed Wing Search and Rescue (FWSAR) program. Other companies bidding on the project are the Leonardo (formerly Alenia Aermacchi) C-27J Spartan and the Embraer (Brazil) KC-390. The successful new aircraft will replace the RCAF's aging six CC-115 Buffalo and the older CC-130H Hercules, which are currently assigned to the SAR role.

C295W_2016-NA-Tour-decal

The C295W tour ran from June 18 - 29, 2016, with the aircraft making several stops and some demonstrations in Canada, including:

  • Saskatoon & Prince Albert, Saskatchewan
  • Yellowknife, Northwest Territories
  • Resolute Bay, Nunavut
  • Churchill, Manitoba
  • Thunder Bay, Pickle Lake & Kasabonika Lake, Ontario
  • Winnipeg, Manitoba

After its last stop in Winnipeg the C295W was placed on static display at the 8 Wing / Trenton 2016 QIAS on June 25 & 26. On completion of the Canadian tour the aircraft was to make stops in the U.S. prior to its return to Mexico.

C295W 3207

419 Squadron - Commemorative CT-155 Hawk (155217)

CT-155 155217

419 Squadron (RCAF) was formed during WWII at Mindenhall, England, on December 15, 1941. The squadron was the RCAF's 17th squadron formed overseas and the RCAF's 3rd Bomber squadron formed under Article XV of the BCATP.

The squadron (unit code letters 'VR') initially flew the Vickers Wellington MkIC and MkIII with No. 3 Group as a night bomber unit. The squadron converted to the Handley Page Halifax MkII in November 1942. On March 1, 1943 the squadron joined No.6 (RCAF) Group and in March 1944 began flying the Canadian built Avro Lancaster MkX.

Today the squadron is known as 419 (Tactical Fighter) Training Squadron and is based at 4 Wing / CFB Cold Lake, Alberta. The unit operates the CT-155 Hawk in the fighter lead-in training role.

To commemorate the squadron's 75th anniversary (1941 - 2016) a special paint scheme was applied to one of the unit's CT-155 Hawk aircraft. Designed by graphic artist Jim Belliveau the colour scheme is representative of the standard dark green and dark earth-brown topside colours and black underside worn by aircraft in RAF Bomber Command during WWII.

CT-155 155217

The aircraft is dedicated to the squadron's first Commanding Officer, Wing Commander (W/C) John "Moose" Fulton, DSO, DFC, AFC (December 21, 1941 - July 28, 1942) of Kamloops, BC, and bears a combination of markings. The unit code VR-W, the dedication on the aircraft nose, and yellow "W" are in honour of W/C Fulton and the Wellington bomber he flew. The Moose emblem and the aircraft serial KB799 honour one of 419 Squadron's Lancaster MkX bombers which carried the oldest known "Moose" art of the unit.

It should be noted that the Canadian Warplane Heritage (CWH) Museum's Lancaster MkX, "Mynarski Memorial Lancaster", is also painted in the Bomber Command colours of 419 Squadron (RCAF) aircraft serial KB726, code VR-A.

CT-155 155217

2 Canadian Forces Flying Training School (2 CFFTS) - Commemorative CT-156 Harvard II (156120)

CT-156 156120

2 CFFTS, known as the "Big 2", is based at 15 Wing / CFB Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan and is the host unit of the NATO Flying Training in Canada (NFTC) program. CAE is the prime contractor for the NFTC program and is responsible for all support functions at the school including the provision of the Raytheon CT-156 Harvard II and BAE CT-155 Hawk aircraft.

2 CFFTS operates the CT-156 Harvard II in the primary and advanced (fast jet) training role. Graduates of the basic Harvard II course are streamed to either jet, multi-engine or helicopter advanced training. Those selected for jet receive further advanced training on the Harvard II prior to conversion to the Hawk as preparation for final their training phase at 4 Wing / CFB Cold Lake, Alberta.

In commemoration of the BCATP, 2 CFFTS, with the support of CAE, had one of its CT-156 Harvard II's (156120) painted in a special colour scheme. The aircraft is overall yellow and is representative of the WWII "Yellow Wings" trainers used in the BCATP. The aircraft paint finish was applied by Plane Perfection in Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, and was completed on June 17, 2016.

CT-156 156120

The Harvard II is displayed in the markings of a WWII North American Harvard flown by Pilot Officer (P/O) John Gillespie Magee Jr. during his training at No.2 Service Flying Training School (SFTS) at Uplands, Ontario, in June 1941. P/O Magee is best known as the author of the poem "High Flight". "High Flight" is now considered to be poem of the RCAF and is read at graduation and commemorative ceremonies.

F-22A 08-4169

Canadian Warplane Heritage (CWH) Museum - Avro Lancaster B. Mk X ("Mynarski Memorial Lancaster")

Lancaster Mk. X C-GVRA

The CWH Museum's Lancaster MkX (serial FM213) was built by Victory Aircraft Company of Malton, Ontario in July 1945. It was converted later to a Mk X MR (Maritime Reconnaissance) and taken on strength with the RCAF on August 21, 1946. In 1952, with only 10.5 hours of flying time the aircraft was heavily damaged when the landing gear collapsed at Trenton, Ontario during a ferry flight.

The Lancaster was nearly unsalvageable; however, a replacement wing centre section was located on a farm in Penhold, Alberta. That aircraft (serial KB895) was known as "Lady Orchid" and had flown with 434 "Bluenose" Squadron (unit code letters "WL"). Repairs were completed to Lancaster FM213 using the mid section from "Lady Orchid" and it was returned to active service flying with 405 Squadron (Greenwood, Nova Scotia) and 107 Rescue Unit (Torbay, Newfoundland). FM213 was retired in late 1963.

In 1964 the remaining Lancaster's were retired from RCAF service. Lancaster FM213 was Struck off Strength on June 30, 1964, and was acquired by the Royal Canadian Legion in Goderich, Ontario, where it was placed on outdoor display. In 1977 the aircraft was obtained by the CWH Museum. After 11 years of work, on September 24, 1988, the Lancaster was restored to flying condition.

There are currently only two flying Lancasters in the world: the CWH Museum’s Lancaster based in Mount Hope, Ontario; and the RAF Battle of Britain Memorial Flight’s Lancaster based at RAF Coningsby in Lincolnshire, UK.

The CWH Lancaster is painted in the markings of 419 "Moose" Squadron, serial KB726, aircraft code letters VR-A, in memory of Victoria Cross recipient Pilot Officer (P/O) Andrew Mynarski of Winnipeg, Manitoba. The CWH Lancaster is known as the "Mynarski Memorial Lancaster". Over the last couple of years the CWH Museum has honoured other RCAF Lancasters and their crews by temporarily applying their markings to the Mynarski Memorial Lancaster.

For the summer of 2016 the CWH Museum Lancaster will also have the markings and nose art of "Lady Orchid" (aircraft code letters "WL-O") applied to left side of the fuselage. It is an especially appropriate tribute given that "VR-A" was rebuilt using a portion of "Lady Orchid". Black decals were applied over the regular "VR-A" markings and for a more authentic look the "Lady Orchid" nose art was painted on.

Lancaster Mk. X C-GVRA

Trenton - A Brief Base History

Post World War I, between 1920 and 1930, the majority of all Canadian military flying training was being carried out at Camp Borden, Ontario, the air base having been established by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the First World War. The exception to this was the Flying boat and Seaplane flying training which at that time was being conducted at Jericho Beach (Vancouver), BC and Rockcliffe, Ontario.

In the intervening years the Canadian Air Force, and subsequently its successor, the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) began the search for a suitable site to establish a new training base. Twenty-five possible locations were considered in Ontario and Quebec. On October 11, 1929, in Ottawa, a site was formally announced as the new base location. The location was an area of farmland east of the Town of Trenton, Ontario along the shore of the Bay of Quinte. Initially an area of 870 acres was selected; this was later increased to 948 acres.

Funding for the base construction was requested on May 10, 1929 by the Defence Department. With the onset of the Great Depression the economic benefits of the new base were quickly felt in the region. Additional funding was provided in the form of an Unemployment Relief Project (URP). The URPs were allocated by the Federal Government and were designed to provide assistance to the unemployed during the Depression years. On October 31, 1932 Unemployment Relief Project #28 was approved with work beginning by November 9, 1932 under that project fund.

Operational units began occupying the base facilities even as construction continued. In September 1931 two flights of aircraft from No.2 (Army Cooperation) Squadron and No. 3 (Bomber) Squadron stationed at Camp Borden arrived at Trenton. This occasion marks the beginning of operational activities at the base.

At the beginning of World War II an agreement between Canada, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand was signed (on December 17, 1939) making Canada the centre of air crew training for the Commonwealth. The agreement called the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan (BCATP), often simply referred to as "The Plan", has been recognized as one of Canada's greatest contributions to the war effort . RCAF Station Trenton was a central facility within the Plan. One of the first schools established at Trenton was No. 1 Air Navigation School on February 2, 1940. The school's focus was to train instructors for the first three BCATP Air Observers Schools (AOS): No. 1 AOS (Malton, Ontario), No. 2 AOS (Edmonton, Alberta), and No. 3 AOS (Regina, Saskatchewan).

Trenton was also the central facility responsible for the training of flight instructors. These flight instructors in turn would train thousands of pilots as part of the BCATP in Canada.

Initially formed at Camp Borden the Flying Instructor School (FIS) was transferred to Trenton in January 1940. In June 1940 the name was changed to No.1 Central Flying School (CFS). At the end of July 1942 the school had trained 2,622 flight instructors.

As the BCATP expanded three additional Flying Instructor Schools were established: 1 FIS (Trenton, Ontario), 2 FIS (Pearce, Alberta) and 3 FIS (Arnprior, Ontario) which allowed the CFS, in Trenton, to concentrate on post-graduate courses for senior instructors. This resulted in much improved supervision to the BCATP pilot training and testing curriculum. This increased rigour helped give the RCAF a well earned reputation for its thorough training methods.

RCAF Station Trenton was the largest facility within the BCATP. At its peak the station had 3,200 air force personnel and 500 civilians. In January 1945, as the BCATP was drawing to a close, the four training commands (No.1 Training Command (Toronto, Ontario), No.2 Training Command (Winnipeg, Manitoba), No.3 Training Command (Montreal, Quebec), and No.4 Training Command (Regina, Saskatchewan)) were amalgamated and replaced by No.1 Air Training Command at Trenton. The BCATP ended on March 31, 1945.

On February 1, 1968, Canada's Air Force, Navy and Army were merged to form the Canadian Armed Forces (Canadian Forces). Under this unification RCAF Station Trenton became Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton.

On the 69th anniversary of the Air Force, effective April 1, 1993, wing formations were reintroduced into Air Command. CFB Trenton was designated as 8 Wing.

Today 8 Wing / CFB Trenton is the largest base in the RCAF. It is the hub of air mobility for the Air Force and operates fixed wing aircraft in both the tactical and strategic roles. It is also the home of the Canadian Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team.

  • Canadian Forces Station (CFS) Alert - the most northerly, permanently inhabited location in the world (817 kilometres from the geographic North Pole)
  • 412 (Transport) Squadron - operating the CC-144 Challenger, based in Ottawa, Ontario
  • 424 (Transport & Rescue) Squadron - operating the CC-130H Hercules and the CH-146 Griffon helicopter (SAR role)
  • 426 (Transport Training) Squadron - responsible for the training of aircrew, technicians, and aeromedical personnel utilizing flight simulators, aircrew and technical simulation (Air Mobility Training Centre), CC-130 Hercules and CC-150 Polaris
  • 429 (Transport) Squadron - operating the CC-177 Globemaster III
  • 436 (Transport) Squadron - operating the CC-130J Hercules
  • 437 (Transport) Squadron - operating the CC-150 Polaris
  • 2 Air Movements Squadron - responsible for processing all airlift traffic including passengers, freight, baggage, and mail originating, staging through, or terminating at 8 Wing
  • 8 Air Maintenance Squadron - responsible for performing all second line maintenance on systems and components for the CC-130H/J Hercules and CC-177 Globemaster aircraft
  • 8 Air Reserve Flight - consists of both full-time and part-time personnel comprised of aircrew, support, and clerical staff, who augment most sections and all squadrons at 8 Wing
  • 8 Air Communications and Control Squadron
  • Aerospace and Telecommunications Engineering Support Squadron (ATESS)
  • Canadian Forces Aerospace Warfare Centre (CFAWC)
  • Canadian Army Advanced Warfare Centre (CAAWC) - home of the Canadian Forces SkyHawks Parachute Team
  • Joint Rescue Coordination Centre
  • Search and Rescue Network Operation Communications Centre

CC-177 177701

A special thanks is owed to Sara Hart and the 2016 Quinte International Air Show Public Affairs Team for their kind support.

For more RCAF 8 Wing aircraft photos see also our previous report on the 2014 CFB Trenton Open House event.

Report and photos by Ron Cembrowski ( view portfolio )

Home | Aircraft | Air Forces | Air Shows | Specials | Wallpapers | News | Quiz | Forum

Contact | About | FAQ | Updates | RSS Feeds | Links | Search

Copyright © 2002-2024 Niels Hillebrand . All Rights Reserved | Privacy & Cookie Policy | Terms of Service

click to vote for MILAVIA

The Aviationist

  • March 7, 2024 Italian Air Force Graduates Italian Navy’s New F-35B Pilots F-35
  • March 6, 2024 U.S. Air Force F-16 And F-35 Demo Teams Announce Their New Pilots Airshows
  • March 6, 2024 Incredible Photos Of The HMS Prince Of Wales And Its F-35Bs Under The Aurora Borealis Aircraft Carriers
  • March 3, 2024 V-22 Osprey Fleet To Return To Flight After 3-Month Worldwide Grounding Aviation Safety
  • March 2, 2024 Italian Anti-Air Warfare Destroyer Shoots Down Houthi Drone In Red Sea Maritime Security

Frecce Tricolori North American Tour 2024 Just Announced

Frecce Tricolori North America tour

In 2024, the Frecce Tricolori will visit U.S. and Canada for the first North American tour in more than 30 years.

On Nov. 23, 2023, during the presentation of the Italian Air Force 2024 calendar, Gen. Luca Goretti, the Chief of Staff of the Italian Air Force, announced that the Frecce Tricolori display team will return to North America next summer.

The team will fly over Canada, where RCAF (Royal Canadian Air Force) will celebrate the 100th anniversary next year, and then across the U.S. While no further details have been disclosed yet, Goretti said that the Frecce will also carry out a flyover and display over Los Angeles, to celebrate the arrival of the Amerigo Vespucci, the iconic full-rigged ship of the the Italian Navy (Marina Militare) which left Genoa harbor on a world tour on Jul. 1, 2023.

#Calendario2024 dell’ #AeronauticaMilitare , il mese di gennaio racconta la mostra “Ali di Carta” e sulla pagina accanto la foto del velivolo G-91R, in volo insieme alle @FrecceTricolori su Pratica di Mare. Live 📷➡️ https://t.co/PeeWY2z2Ys #AeronauticaMilitare100 pic.twitter.com/Fw0TK8IeND — Aeronautica Militare (@ItalianAirForce) November 23, 2023

The North American tour is the third one across U.S. and Canada and the first in more than 30 years. The first tour took place in 1986 and the second one in 1992.

We will provide an update about the 2024 tour as soon as we gather more details.

The Frecce Tricolori, also known as the Pattuglia Acrobatica Nazionale (PAN, Italian Aerobatic Team) is, undoubtedly, the most popular and visible component of the Italian Air Force as well as a symbol of Italy: with its 10 Italian built aircraft – the MB.339A/PAN – the “Frecce” (Italian for “Arrows”) – form one of the world’s most prestigious aerobatic teams. It holds a Guinness World record too: for the most jet aircraft in a military aerobatic display team.

The Italian Aerobatic Team is assigned to the 313° Gruppo Addestramento Acrobatico (Aerobatic Training Squadron) based at Rivolto Air Base, in northeastern Italy. The Frecce Tricolori are tasked with “representing the Air Force and Italy in both national and international air displays, and demonstrating, through the execution of collective aerobatic flight programmes, not only their professional and technical skills, but also the inventiveness and courage of an entire Armed Force and of Italy.”

The team has recently suffered an incident : on Sept. 16, 2023, one of the aircraft of the team crashed shortly after taking off from Turin Caselle airport, most probably as a consequence of a bird strike (the root cause of the mishap has not been disclosed yet, as the investigation is still in progress). While the pilot managed to eject from the plane, the wreckage of the aircraft slid along the ground breaking through the airport fence and hitting a car travelling on the road that runs alongside the airfield. Unfortunately a 5-year old girl was killed in the incident.

The team is equipped with the PAN version of the MB-339A, a single engine tandem seat training and tactical support aircraft. Apart from the livery (that, in the recent year, has been slightly modified to adopt special tails ), the 313° Gruppo aircraft differ from the standard model serving with the Aeronautica Militare by the presence onboard of the coloured smokes generation system: this device is controlled by two buttons: one on the stick, for white smoke, and one on the throttle for coloured smoke. The system is fed from an under wing fuel tank filled with a colouring agent which is discharged through nozzles placed in the jet exhaust. The agent, vaporised in the jet exhaust, produces a coloured trail.

trenton air base tour

The MB-339 will be replaced by the M-345  ( T-345 according to the Italian MOD Mission Design Series) in the future, even though a official plan for the retirement of the type has not been confirmed.

Similarly to 2021, when they decorated the tails with “liveries” inspired by the Italian Air Force display teams that represented Italy and its Air Force in the decade before the Frecce Tricolori were officially established, this year, they have adopted special tails to celebrate… — The Aviationist (@TheAviationist) November 23, 2023

' src=

  • Frecce Tricolori
  • Frecce Tricolori North America tour
  • Italian Air Force

Related Articles

Italian Air Force calendar

F-35 In ‘Beast Mode’, Swing-Role Typhoons And Everything You’ll Find In The 2022 Calendar Of The Italian Air Force

The Italian Air Force 2022 Calendar Marks A Significant Change In The Service’s Communication Strategy. On Oct. 7, 2021, the Aeronautica Militare (Italian Air Force) presented its 2022 calendar during an event attended by civil […]

trenton air base tour

The "F-104 return to flight" hoax

After reading some news dealing with the presumed imminent return to flight of an airworthy Italian F-104 (obviously hoaxes related to the April Fool’s Day), I decided to publish the following postcard made with a […]

Emerald Strike

U.S. F-16s And Italian Typhoons Train Together During Emerald Strike 2023

A dozen F-16s deployed to Grosseto Air Base, where they integrated with the Italian Air Force Eurofighters for the two-week exercise. The 4° Stormo Caccia (Fighter Wing) of the Italian Air Force has hosted the […]

Be the first to comment

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Copyright © 2024 | MH Magazine WordPress Theme by MH Themes Contents of this blog/website may not be used without author's prior written permission. All rights reserved.

Aviation News

RCAF upgrades CFB Trenton, introduces the CE-145C Vigilance

The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is poised for a significant boost in air mobility capabilities with a major investment in Canadian Forces Base Trenton (CFB Trenton). The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced an $629 million investment to upgrade the base and accommodate Canada’s new fleet of CC-330 Husky Strategic Tanker Transport Aircraft.

This investment signifies a comprehensive transformation of CFB Trenton. Extensive airfield and infrastructure improvements are planned, including the development and construction of a two-bay hangar specifically designed to house the larger CC-330 Husky aircraft. Additionally, upgrades to the apron, runway, and taxiways will ensure safe and efficient operation of the new fleet. The investment will also encompass enhancements to other supporting infrastructure, solidifying CFB Trenton’s position as the Eastern Main Operating Base for the CC-330 Husky fleet.

The project underscores Canada’s commitment to modernizing its air mobility assets. Minister Blair highlighted the rapid acquisition of nine CC-330 Husky aircraft, nearly doubling the size of the previous fleet. Two CC-330 Husky aircraft have already been delivered, with the remaining aircraft expected to arrive soon. While currently configured for transport, these aircraft will be eventually converted to multi-role tanker transport capabilities, offering increased flexibility for missions including air-to-air refueling, passenger transport, aeromedical evacuation, and strategic airlift.

Minister Blair further announced the arrival of the first of three new CE-145C Vigilance aircraft. These modified Beechcraft King Air 350ER turboprop aircraft, produced by L3 Harris, provide a new and vital manned airborne intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (MAISR) capability for the Canadian Special Operations Forces Command (CANSOFCOM). Equipped with advanced sensors and secure communication systems, the CE-145C Vigilance aircraft will enhance situational awareness and support decision-making for special operations on the ground. Delivery of the remaining two CE-145C aircraft is expected in spring 2024, with full operational capability anticipated within a year.

For more information, hit the Source below

Related posts (Automatically Generated):

  • RCAF tested CH-147F’s Arctic navigation capability
  • Canada to decide on CC-150 replacement after new fighter is selected
  • Canada confirms 5th C-17
  • Canada to acquire up to 16 P-8A aircraft
  • RCAF Elephant Walk at 8 Wing
  • Canada commits to 88 F-35As

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Your browser is not supported

Sorry but it looks as if your browser is out of date. To get the best experience using our site we recommend that you upgrade or switch browsers.

Find a solution

  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to navigation
  • hot-topics Trending now
  • Singapore Airshow 2024
  • Airline Business Covid-19 recovery tracker
  • 2024 World Air Forces directory
  • Airline Business podcast
  • Guide to Business Aviation Training and Safety 2023
  • Final Boeing 747 delivery
  • 2023 Industry forecast
  • 2023 World Air Forces directory
  • Sustainable Aviation newsletter
  • Covid-19 recovery tracker
  • Farnborough 2022
  • IATA AGM 2022
  • What will it take to Decarbonise Aviation?
  • Order tracker
  • Guide to Business Aviation Training and Safety 2022
  • Ukraine crisis
  • Singapore Airshow 2022
  • The Pilot Survey 2022
  • What does the future of aviation look like in 2022?
  • World Air Forces directory 2022
  • Shell Aviation: What will it take to Decarbonise Aviation?
  • EDGE: A new global force in aerospace and defence
  • World Airline Rankings 2021
  • IATA AGM 2021
  • Top 100 aerospace companies
  • Defending across the domains
  • FlightGlobal Guide to Business Aviation Training and Safety 2021
  • Airline Business special: CEOs to watch in 2021
  • 737 Max: Two years on
  • Women in Aviation
  • The Pilot Survey 2021 Report
  • Helicopter Report
  • Sustainability at Paris

trenton air base tour

  • Back to parent navigation item
  • Systems & Interiors
  • Helicopters
  • Air transport
  • Orders & Deliveries
  • Business aviation
  • North America
  • Latin America
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
  • Airline Business
  • Digital issues of Airline Business
  • Airline Business Index
  • Airline Covid-19 recovery tracker
  • Military UAVs
  • Flight International
  • Subscribe to Flight International
  • Flight International Opinion
  • 110 years of Flight
  • Airbus at 50
  • Honeywell: Shaping the Future
  • CAE: Sky's no limit
  • Events and webinars
  • Upcoming events
  • Upcoming webinars
  • On demand webinars
  • Airline Strategy Awards 2024
  • Airlines 2024 – Website coming soon

PIlots -c-Skycolors Shutterstock

  • More from navigation items

PICTURES: Canada's first C-130J lands in Trenton

By Craig Hoyle 2010-06-07T14:50:00+01:00

Canada’s air force has received its first of 17 Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical transports, with the aircraft having arrived at its Trenton air base in Ontario on 4 June.

Delivered from Lockheed’s Marietta production site in Georgia, the stretched-fuselage aircraft is drawn from Ottawa’s $1.4 billion production contract for the type, signed in December 2007.

Canada should receive up to a further five of its new-generation Hercules this year, with the remainder to follow by late 2012, its Department of National Defence says. The fleet will be operated by the air force’s 8 Wing, which already flies legacy C-130E/Hs and four Boeing C-17 strategic transports.

“The successful procurement of the CC-130J demonstrates the government's commitment to provide the Canadian Forces with cost-effective tactical airlift capability,” says Rona Ambrose, minister of public works and government services.

The DND says its first C-130J was delivered six months ahead of schedule, and that the programme is also running under budget.

Source: FlightGlobal.com

Related articles

Swedish air force Gripen Cs

Sweden formally becomes 32nd NATO member

2024-03-07T18:06:00Z By Craig Hoyle

Sweden has joined NATO as the western military alliance’s 32nd member, with its prime minister Ulf Kristersson having formally deposited its instrument of accession with the US government in Washington DC on 7 March.

Brazilian air force KC-130M

Brazilian air force sends its last Hercules into retirement

2024-03-07T14:17:00Z By Craig Hoyle

The Brazilian air force (FAB) has retired the last of its Lockheed Martin C-130H tactical transports, bringing to an end almost 60 years of operations involving the Hercules.

RCAF King Air 350ER ISR first delivery

Canada takes delivery of new King Air 350ER-based surveillance aircraft

2024-03-06T19:27:00Z By Ryan Finnerty

Under the Manned Airborne Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance project, L3Harris will modify three Beechcraft King Air 350ER turboprops with mission packages for service with the Royal Canadian Air Force under the designation CE-145C Vigilance.

  • Advertise with us
  • Conferences and Events
  • Newsletters
  • Paid content

FlightGlobal is the global aviation community’s primary source of news, data, insight, knowledge and expertise. We provide news, data, analytics and advisory services to connect the aviation community globally and help organisations shape their business strategies, identify new opportunities and make better decisions faster.

  • Announcements
  • Terms and conditions
  • Cookie policy
  • Privacy policy
  • © DVV Media International Limited
  • Connect with us on Facebook
  • Connect with us on Twitter
  • Connect with us on Linked in
  • Connect with us on Youtube

Site powered by Webvision Cloud

Unlock our take on the stories that matter for just £22 a month

Breaking news, expert analysis, member-first insights and commentary on the global aviation industry.

trenton air base tour

  • Bus Cancellations
  • Meet the News Team

Home

$850 million Announced for CFB Trenton

$850 million Announced for CFB Trenton

Defence Minister Bill Blair (Photo: Tim Durkin/ Quinte News)

It is one of the largest ever investments at Canadian Forces Base Trenton.

Friday morning at Hangar 7 at 8-Wing, Defence Minister Bill Blair and the Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny, announced $850 million in infrastructure and aircraft investment for the base.

The money will fund airfield and infrastructure work, including the design of a two-bay hangar for the new fleet of CC-330 refueling, cargo, and passenger planes known as the Husky Fleet.  That includes the taxi ways and a reinforced runway at the base.

“The first of these aircraft entered service last November and it has been transporting personnel since then. The second of these aircraft was delivered to Canada just a few weeks ago, and we will be receiving the other used Huskies in the coming year.”

Blair says that in the interim the planes will be located at Ottawa International Airport, but will call Trenton home soon.  Trenton will serve as the Eastern Canada operating hub for the planes.

A strengthening of the taxi

Commander Kenny explained the timeline for the remainder of Husky Fleet rollout.

“We’ve signed a contract now to receive three more.  They’ll be coming in approximately the next year to two years.”

There will be nine planes in total for the Husky Fleet.  The planes are being readied in Spain so they can be a multi-use aircraft so cargo, passengers, and for the air-to-air refueling capabilities.

trenton air base tour

Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force Lieutenant-General Eric Kenny.  The Vigalance aircraft is photographed behind him

Both General Kenny and Minister Blair also welcomed the new fleet of Vigilance turbo prop aircraft, which will offer manned airborne intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance capability.  These planes will be used by Canada’s special forces and also will be located at 8-Wing.

“Here at Trenton, is the first of three CE-145C aircraft to fulfill this role.  The aircraft, which you see behind me today, will be named Vigilance.” 

Blair says the investment is for our military women and men and for all Canadians.

“We’re building tomorrow’s Royal Canadian Air Force and I believe that this something that all Canadian’s should be proud of and to support.”

Minister Blair also spoke to the economic benefits of the project, which would lead to jobs for maintenance of the aircraft, along with the infrastructure at the base.

“Will create real opportunities for the people of this region and create jobs, which is also an important element of the investment that we are making in the Royal Canadian Air Force.”

The CC-330 Husky aircraft will replace the RCAF’s current CC-150 Polaris fleet of five aircraft.

You can listen to the entire media conference below.

trenton air base tour

  • Dental Plan Update
  • Unemployment Rate
  • Moscow Terrorism Risk
  • State of the Union
  • Local Change location
  • Entertainment
  • Perspectives

TV Programs

  • Global National
  • The Morning Show
  • Video Centre
  • More…
  • Email alerts
  • Breaking News Alerts from Global News
  • License Content
  • New Brunswick
  • Peterborough

Close Local

Your local region.

  • All event types

Quick Search

Trending now.

  •    

Add Global News to Home Screen Close

Instructions:

  • Press the share icon on your browser
  • Select Add to Home Screen

Comments Close comments menu

Want to discuss? Please read our Commenting Policy first.

Feds announce $850M for upgrades at CFB Trenton; base to host new fleet

trenton air base tour

If you get Global News from Instagram or Facebook - that will be changing. Find out how you can still connect with us .

The federal government is spending $850 million for upgrades at CFB Trenton to ready the Ontario base for a new military transport fleet.

trenton air base tour

National Defence Minister Bill Blair was in Trenton Friday to announce the funding.

“With new fleets of fighter jets, maritime patrol aircraft, tanker and transport aircraft, and more arriving throughout the next few years, we are building the Royal Canadian Air Force of tomorrow,” Blair said in a statement sent to media.

“These significant investments in our military will enable the RCAF to better defend Canada and strengthen Canada’s ability to contribute to our NORAD and NATO Alliances.”

The upgrades are part of Canada’s plan to replace its aging fleet of  Polaris VIP and transport aircraft with nine new Airbus planes — some brand new, some secondhand — including one to be used specifically for transport of high-ranking government officials.

The replacements are a part of what the government calls the Strategic Tanker Transport Capability Project, with the goal of enhancing the Royal Canadian Air Force’s air mobility and air-to-air refuelling capacity.

Under the project, A330 Multi-Role Tanker Transport aircraft will replace the CC-150 Polaris, with the fleet being named the CC-330 Husky.

The money announced Friday will be used to develop and design a two-bay hangar, an upgraded apron and runway, taxiways, and other supporting infrastructure to make CFB Trenton the main operating bases in eastern Canada for the new CC-330 Husky fleet.

Of the nine aircraft making up the fleet, four will be new and five will be used craft purchased from the commercial market, according to a release sent by the department when the project was first announced last July.

Blair said as of Friday two Husky aircraft have been delivered to Canada so far.

–With files from Sean Previl 

  • Eby downplays Danielle Smith’s safe supply worry after B.C. seizure
  • Poilievre says ‘corporate lobbyists’ in Ottawa are ‘utterly useless’
  • A closer look at the growing diversity of Conservatives under Poilievre
  • Eby meets with Jewish community, vows to ‘root out’ public service antisemitism

Sponsored content

Report an error, subscribe here.

trenton air base tour

trenton air base tour

Man High School students tour Air National Guard base in Charleston as part of an effort to promote Guard recruitment

CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Man High School students out of Logan County were getting an eyeful at the Air National Guard base in Charleston during a tour promoting education and recruitment.

The students paid a visit to the 130th Airlift Wing within the West Virginia International Yeager Airport Thursday to tour an aircraft, take a look at the mechanics within the planes, and learn about the different career paths, benefits, and incentive programs the Air National Guard offers.

Air National Guard Master Sergeant for the 130th Airlift Wing Casey Reed said this is a tour they like to give all high schools around the region on a frequent basis because they offer multiple jobs within the guard that could appeal to many types of young people who are looking for a future working around planes.

“We have multiple careers that actually work on our aircraft it’s not just one career specifically, so we have things for propulsion, avionics, electrical and environmental, hydraulics, so there’s multiple skill sets when it comes to working on our C130s here,” said Reed.

He said the careers within the guard also range from medical field positions, administrative roles, all the way up to mechanics that work on multimillion dollar aircraft.

Auston Nash, a junior at Man High School told MetroNews that he was excited for Thursday’s tour to get some insight into the operations within the Air National Guard as well as get some inspiration regarding a future career.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how everything works and just seeing how everybody are around here, and just really seeing what great opportunities there are here,” he said.

The students were getting to go around to each of the different shops and operations on the base as part of Thursday’s tour.

In one shop, they got to get an up close look at the older model C-130H engines that the guard used to use in their aircrafts which have now been replaced with C-130J engines they currently fly with.

Nash the engines and planes were bigger than anything he’s ever seen before.

“I think it’s pretty crazy to see how much bigger everything is compared to everything you see around a small area like Man, just seeing regular cars, then you see a bunch of airplane engines and it’s much bigger and how different they are,” said Nash.

A senior at Man High School, Gunnar Cline said he takes a mechanics class at the vocational school in Man. He said he already has a passion for working on engines in vehicles, so it was exciting for him to get see the mechanics in aircrafts.

trenton air base tour

“I thought it was pretty unique to talk to one of the guys and he told me how the engine works, because, I’m really interested in mechanics and all of that stuff so it was pretty awesome learning about a new engine forum,” he said.

Cline said he could definitely see himself going into something like aircraft maintenance for the Air National Guard in the future.

However, along with learning about the mechanics aspect of the tour, he said he also liked hearing about all of the other various opportunities such as the educational benefits, as well as the leadership and discipline that the guard teaches.

“I feel like that’s pretty cool to learn about and how you can join the military and come out a better person, a better civilian, and you can use those skills in the civilian world,” said Cline.

Sgt. Reed said in the past couple of years, recruitment numbers in the Air National Guard among other military branches has been waning.

He said one aspect of this is due to more and more young people not being medically-qualified to join the military for multiple reasons. Another reason he said is just a general lack of interest.

However, Reed said they are trying to to turn the enlistment issue around by educating young people about the many benefits and opportunities the career offers.

“What we’re trying to do with these tours is bring more of a captive audience to see what we can do to help increase those recruitment numbers,” said Reed. “That’s why we’re encouraging people to reach out to us and learn what we do, because, I think that would really open some eyes and bring more people into the Air National Guard.”

He said he suspects the Covid-19 Pandemic also played a role in the lower recruitment numbers as it had affected every aspect of life, specifically in professional arenas with lockdowns and limited in-person presence.

One major initiative the Air National Guard is taking to boost recruitment besides holding the tours is through a newly-unveiled incentive program designed to reward people at every stage of their military journey.

Reed said they now are offering career bonuses of up to $50,000 for people with no prior service experience depending on the specific field of the guard they go into.

He said this could mean someone straight out of high school coming into the Air National Guard could get their college paid for as well as receive a bonus allowing them to avoid debt in college, along with the additional benefit of already having a career while getting a chance to pursue other passions.

“We have great incentives for those coming out of high school or even someone who’s actually already in a career, specifically those like that of our up to $9,000 in-state tuition, so they could go to WVU or Marshall, or whatever college that’s in the state, we’re going to cover up to $9,000,” he said.

Reed said when new recruits first come in to speak with a recruiter, they will take a test known as the ASVAB. He said the scores they receive on that test will determine which career fields within the Air National Guard that could be made available to them.

  • WV MetroNews Home
  • High School Sports
  • Marshall Sports
  • MetroNews Television
  • Advertising

Language selection

  • Français fr

Past Royal Tours

Members of the Royal Family have made several official and personal tours of Canada over the years, further strengthening the bond between the Crown and Canada.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall clapping, while standing next to the RCMP Commissioner Brenda Lucki.

2022 Royal Tour

The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited Canada from May 17 to 19, 2022 to mark Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee.

The Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall standing next to a woman in a red shirt, holding a plate with a dessert.

Private and official tours since 1953

History buffs will enjoy going back in time for a look at past monarchs who toured Canada from 1786 to 1951 .

Throughout her 70-year reign, The Queen made 22 official tours of Canada, more than any other Commonwealth country. She made her first tour as Princess Elizabeth in 1951 with her husband, The Duke of Edinburgh. She travelled to all regions of the country and was a constant presence in the lives of Canadians, witnessing growth and significant change in Canadian society.

Page details

IMAGES

  1. Memorial Visit to Trenton Canadian Air Force Museum

    trenton air base tour

  2. PLANE SPOTTING at the LARGEST AIR FORCE BASE IN CANADA: CFB Trenton (YTR/ CYTR)

    trenton air base tour

  3. National Air Force Museum of Canada (Trenton)

    trenton air base tour

  4. CFB Trenton officially opens hangar 6

    trenton air base tour

  5. Pin on Airplanes

    trenton air base tour

  6. Plane Spotting at Canada's LARGEST AIR FORCE Base!! CFB Trenton (YTR/ CYTR)

    trenton air base tour

COMMENTS

  1. National Air Force Museum of Canada

    The National Air Force Museum of Canada is a must-see attraction while in the Quinte area. With over 75,000 square feet of display space attached to a sprawling, 16-acre air park, plan to set aside a few hours to truly enjoy this aviation gem. Established in 1984, the NAFMC is dedicated to preserving and telling the history of Canadian military ...

  2. National Air Force Museum of Canada

    The National Air Force Museum of Canada (NAFMC) is proud to honour the heritage of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Discover an aviation history full of valour and tradition through a wide variety of exhibits, interactive activities and displays, including the fully restored World War II Halifax Bomber (the only one of its kind in the world!).

  3. CFB Trenton

    Canadian Forces Base Trenton (IATA: YTR, ICAO: CYTR) (also CFB Trenton), formerly RCAF Station Trenton, is a Canadian Forces base located within the city of Quinte West, Ontario.It is operated as an air force base by the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) and is the hub for air transport operations in Canada and abroad. Its primary RCAF lodger unit is 8 Wing, commonly referred to as 8 Wing Trenton.

  4. Admission

    Admission. The Museum is a self-guided attraction. However, volunteer tour guides are always available during visitor hours and can provide you with as much or as little direction and information as you need. The NAFMC volunteers are a wellspring of knowledge, both in the Museum's history and its collection. Mainly comprised of past or ...

  5. Airpower History Tour in Trenton, New Jersey

    Airpower History Tour in Trenton, New Jersey. Jun. 10 - Jun. 13. Trenton, NJ. Dates & Times: Thursday, June 10, 2021 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. B-29 & B-24 cockpit tours available all day. T-6 & PT-13 available for rides all day. ... COMMEMORATIVE AIR FORCE Dallas Executive Airport P.O. Box 764769 Dallas, Texas 75376 DONATE.

  6. National Air Force Museum of Canada, Trenton

    About. The National Air Force Museum of Canada (NAFMC) is proud to honour the heritage of the Royal Canadian Air Force. Discover an aviation history full of valour and tradition through a wide variety of exhibits, interactive activities and displays, including the fully restored World War II Halifax Bomber (the only one of its kind in the world!).

  7. National Air Force Museum of Canada

    Located on the largest Air Force base in Canada, CFB Trenton is host to the National Air Force Museum, and also the 15 acre RCAF Memorial Airpark which exhibits 22 historic aircraft and memorials. ... Information on Quinte Air Show at CFB Trenton Latitude: 44.1158476 or N 44 o 6' 57.05" Longitude: -77.5507476 or W 77 o 33' 2.69" Trenton Ontario ...

  8. Great place to see the old Halifax Bomber that was restored here

    Canadian Forces Base Trenton Air Base Museum is very stunning & tells the story of Canadian War history...there is several planes rebuilt on display outside the Museum... This is a MUST see Museum in Trenton, Ontario...there is a gift shop, Tim Hortons across the road...Huge venue for parties, ceremonies etc...

  9. Minister Blair to visit CFB Trenton and hold a media availability

    On Friday, March 8, 2024, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, will visit Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton. As the Royal Canadian Air Force celebrates its 100 th anniversary, Minister Blair will highlight new aircraft that have recently been delivered to Canada and will be joining the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) fleet. He ...

  10. National Air Force Museum of Canada

    National Air Force Museum of Canada, Trenton, Ontario. 8,996 likes · 56 talking about this · 9,041 were here. Established in 1984, the NAFMC is dedicated to sharing Canada's air force history.

  11. National Air Force Museum of Canada

    The National Air Force Museum of Canada was originally founded in 1984 as the RCAF Memorial Library and Museum. In 1994, the museum relocated to 8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Trenton. The museum's most notable accomplishment, and the primary reason for my visit, was the acquisition and restoration of one of the most versatile bombers of World War ...

  12. 8 Wing Trenton

    8 Wing is located at Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton and is under the operational command of 1 Canadian Air Division. From delivering supplies to the high Arctic to airlifting troops, equipment and humanitarian loads worldwide, 8 Wing/CFB Trenton is the hub of Royal Canadian Air Force air mobility operations in Canada.

  13. CFB Trenton Air Show Returns for RCAF Centennial

    Belleville, ON, Canada / Quinte News. The 100th anniversary comes in 2024, with the official arrival on April 1, 2024 for the Royal Canadian Air Force Centennial. April 1, 1924 was when the RCAF ...

  14. Canadian Forces Base Trenton

    8 Wing/Canadian Forces Base Trenton is located 167 km east of Toronto on Lake Ontario's Bay of Quinte. Begun in 1929 on 384 ha of flat farmland adjacent to the town of Trenton. A C-177 Globemaster cargo plane sits on the tarmac at Canadian Forces Base Trenton (8 Wing Trenton). It replaced Camp Borden 's inadequate air force facilities.

  15. Acadia Air Tours

    Operated by Maine Coastal Flight. Take an Air Tour in a Waco biplane Opening July 31st, 2021 From our new location at Scenic Flights of Acadia 1044 Bar Harbor Rd. Trenton Two can fly Hours 9A-6P every day the weather is good for Reservations Call 207-667-7627 If you have any questions about current flights or gift certificates please call 207. ...

  16. Quinte International Air Show 2016

    On June 25 and 26, 2016, 8 Wing / CFB Trenton held the Quinte International Air Show (QIAS). The show commemorated the BCATP and the establishment of the first 400 series squadrons of the RCAF overseas. The first of these squadrons were formed on March 1, 1941, under Article XV of the BCATP. This photo report covers some of the aircraft ...

  17. Frecce Tricolori North American Tour 2024 Just Announced

    In 2024, the Frecce Tricolori will visit U.S. and Canada for the first North American tour in more than 30 years. On Nov. 23, 2023, during the presentation of the Italian Air Force 2024 calendar ...

  18. RCAF upgrades CFB Trenton, introduces the CE-145C Vigilance

    The Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) is poised for a significant boost in air mobility capabilities with a major investment in Canadian Forces Base Trenton (CFB Trenton). The Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, announced an $629 million investment to upgrade the base and accommodate Canada's new fleet of CC-330 Husky Strategic Tanker Transport…

  19. Minister Blair announces $850 million investment in Canadian Forces

    Today, the Honourable Bill Blair, Minister of National Defence, visited Canadian Forces Base (CFB) Trenton, the home of Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) air mobility operations in Canada. Minister Blair announced an investment of $850 million to upgrade CFB Trenton, so that it can host Canada's new fleet of CC-330 Husky Strategic Tanker Transport Aircraft.

  20. PICTURES: Canada's first C-130J lands in Trenton

    Canada's air force has received its first of 17 Lockheed Martin C-130J tactical transports, with the aircraft having arrived at its Trenton air base in Ontario on 4 June. Delivered from Lockheed ...

  21. $850 million Announced for CFB Trenton

    It is one of the largest ever investments at Canadian Forces Base Trenton. Friday morning at Hangar 7 at 8-Wing, Defence Minister Bill Blair and the Commander of the Royal Canadian Air Force ...

  22. Trenton Air Force Base Flyover : r/flying

    Trenton Air Force Base Flyover . I'm a PPL flying out of Kingston, ON, and have been looking for some interesting flight ideas to challenge myself. I've done the 1000 island tour with friends a little too many times lol. Does anyone know if it would be possible to request a low approach over the Trenton air base? Alternatively, any ideas for ...

  23. Feds announce $850M for upgrades at CFB Trenton; base to host new fleet

    The federal government is investing $850 million in upgrades to CFB Trenton as the base prepares to host a new fleet to update mobility and air-to-air refuelling capabilities.

  24. Man High School students tour Air National Guard base in Charleston as

    CHARLESTON, W.Va. — Man High School students out of Logan County were getting an eyeful at the Air National Guard base in Charleston during a tour promoting education and recruitment. The ...

  25. Past Royal Tours

    Explore the highlights of Royal Tours that have taken place across Canada since 1786. Explore the highlights of Royal Tours that have taken place across Canada since 1786. ... On his way to Mexico, stop over at Trenton, Ontario staying at Air Base for the night. Refuelling stops at Gander on both journeys - (1/2 hour) Oct. 5 at 16:45 p.m. and ...